The Simpsons has recently started its 27th season, and now stands as both the longest-running sitcom and animated show in American TV history. However, in an interview this week, showrunner Al Jean has revealed that its days might be numbered.

　　Jean spoke to the Hollywood Reporter about the much-loved show, and discussed what he thought might happen after the current contracts that take the cast to a 28th season run out.

　　"It's quite possible that we don't have to go through the whole negotiation for [season] 30," he said. "I wouldn't be stunned if we stopped at 28, but my bet is on at least 30. But then you'd have to resign them again.

　　"If you made me pick one, I'd say the likeliest is ending after 30, but I've been wrong before. I thought five seasons was good when I got there."

　　Elsewhere in the interview, Jean talked about the rumours that Homer and Marge might be splitting up in this season. This caused an online backlash, just as the rumour that a major character was to be killed off in season 26 had.

　　"I was startled," he admits. "The only thing that compared to it was the year before. Both times, I'd offhandedly mentioned one plot of one show, with a major character dying, and then Homer and Marge separating. I never said 'divorce' because I'm that cautious. Both times it was worldwide headlines.

　　"We did a rebuttal on the splitting up, but of course I'm trying not to give away what happens, and walking that fine line. But rest assured, the show is in the hands of the people that have thus far avoided catastrophe."